Former Northwestern running back Evan Hull did not make Arizona's initial 53-man roster but will remain with the Cardinals on the practice squad, giving him another opportunity to earn his way onto the active roster.
Former Northwestern running back Evan Hull will remain in Arizona after joining the Cardinals' practice squad following the team's 53-man roster decisions.
Hull did not make Arizona's initial 53-man roster, but the move still gives the former Wildcat an opportunity to continue developing within the organization and potentially earn a promotion to the active roster during the season.
That opportunity comes after Hull put together his strongest performance of the preseason in the Cardinals' final exhibition game.
Hull rushed for 118 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries in Arizona's 42-38 loss to the Green Bay Packers. His performance showed the Cardinals what he can provide when given an opportunity and likely helped strengthen his case to remain in the organization.
One of his touchdowns was particularly impressive.
Hull broke off a 47-yard touchdown run and reached a maximum speed of 21.62 mph, according to Next Gen Stats. That was the fastest speed recorded by a ball carrier during the 2026 NFL preseason.
Now, Hull will look to carry that momentum into the regular season. The former Northwestern standout has already shown throughout his career that he can be an effective running back when healthy.
Hull became one of the most productive running backs in Northwestern history, finishing his Wildcats career with 3,169 rushing yards and 24 rushing touchdowns.
During his final season in Evanston in 2022, he rushed for 913 yards and five touchdowns while adding 88 receptions for 900 yards and eight receiving touchdowns.
Nov 12, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Northwestern Wildcats running back Evan Hull (26) runs the ball against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the first quarter at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY SportsHis ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver made him one of Northwestern's most valuable offensive weapons.
Hull's NFL career has been more difficult, however, as injuries have limited his opportunities since entering the league. He was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft but has dealt with injuries during his professional career.
Now, Arizona gives him another chance.
Being on the practice squad means Hull will continue practicing with the organization while remaining available for a potential elevation to the active roster. Injuries or other roster changes during the season could create an opportunity for him to receive a call-up.
Hull has already shown that he can make the most of his opportunities.
His two-touchdown performance against Green Bay provided a reminder of the talent he possesses when he is healthy and receives meaningful carries. If he can continue proving himself in practice, he could eventually force his way into the Cardinals' plans.
For now, the former Northwestern running back still has work to do. But making the practice squad keeps his NFL opportunity alive.
After showing exactly what he can do in the final preseason game, Hull will have another chance to prove he belongs on an NFL roster and potentially earn his way back onto Arizona's 53-man team.
